Gunman Caught: 17 Years Behind Bars for Firearms Offences in Brent
A man linked to a spate of summer violence in Brent has been jailed for 17 years after being caught with a loaded handgun. Massia Tillock, 26, from Wembley, was sentenced at Harrow Crown Court on 17 February following a trial last November.
Chase Ends in Arrest After Police Hunt Suspicious Car
- On 9 July 2019, Violent Crime Taskforce officers spotted Tillock driving a suspicious Mercedes on Harrow Road.
- After pulling onto a service road, he fled on foot, abandoning the vehicle.
- Tillock scrambled across fences and gardens before being caught on Harrow Road — barefoot, missing a shoe.
Police followed a trail left by Tillock, finding a black bag he discarded containing a loaded 9mm Grand Power handgun. Nearby, they recovered his missing shoe and dropped ammunition.
Forensic Evidence Links Gun to Earlier Shooting
The firearm was connected to a non-fatal shooting just three days before Tillock’s arrest. While two people were arrested and released, and one interviewed, no charges have yet been filed in that case. The investigation is ongoing.
Dedicated Police Crackdown on London’s Gun Crime
“Tillock’s arrest came thanks to sharp-eyed officers acting on instinct amid tense violence in north-west London,” said Detective Sergeant Mark Attridge.
“This firearm is now off the streets, preventing further harm.”
The judge described Tillock as a “significant risk to the public,” stressing there’s no excuse for carrying guns other than to commit violent crimes.
The Met’s Violent Crime Taskforce and Trident unit continue their fight to remove dangerous weapons and bring offenders to justice — but they need help from the public.
Community’s Role Vital in Fighting Gun Crime
Detective Sergeant Attridge urged:
“If you know about criminal activity in your area, call the police. Your information could save lives.”
Residents are urged to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour to police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.
